What is evangelism to you and your congregation? Rev. Dr. Ray Jones, director of the Presbyterian Mission Agency’s Office of Theology, Formation, & Evangelism, says “the very word that means to declare good news and glad tidings” has been twisted by contemporary culture into something different, even ugly. Many see evangelism as a tool to
Following a nearly yearlong process to learn from stakeholders including parents, donors, staff, and retreat organizers, Camp Hanover’s board of directors affirmed the foundational pillars of the Camp’s ministry and defined three core beliefs in creating a strategic plan to guide Camp Hanover’s work into the future. “As we developed our strategic plan, it was
The closing of a church is not a joyful occasion. Grief and sadness weigh heavily on our hearts. However, we have faith in the power of God to create new life from loss, just as God resurrected Jesus. As the session of New Covenant Church in Chesterfield planned their church’s closing in 2020, they listened
In October, Presbytery of the James welcomes from El Salvador PC(USA) International Peacemaker Carmen Elena Diaz Anzora and interpreter Joseph Russ. Carmen is an executive committee member of the Calvinist Reformed Church of El Salvador (IRCES), a PC(USA) partner for more than two decades. Joseph is PC(USA)’s coordinator for migration issues, advocacy, and mission in
At a special meeting on August 9 via Zoom, commissioners approved two recommendations from the Presbyter Search Committee: electing Ruling Elder Barbara Chalfant as presbyter for congregational life and Candidate Leigh Anne Ring as presbyter for relational care. Barbara Chalfant A graduate of Union Presbyterian Seminary and a certified Christian educator, Chalfant has served congregations in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Presbytery of the James will convene a special meeting via Zoom at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. The virtual meeting room will open at 6:30 and a brief orientation will occur at 6:50. We project the meeting will end at approximately 8:00 p.m. Please direct all questions or concerns as soon as possible to
Greetings, Presbytery of the James. In my first weeks here at Presbytery of the James, I have been meeting with pastors, committees, and learning my way around. Recently, on Facebook, a church leader in our presbytery asked about my vision. How do I see the Presbytery of the James moving forward? The reality is I
The 111th stated meeting of the Presbytery of the James was held virtually on June 14. A small contingent of commissioners participated in person at Westminster Church (Richmond) to test a hybrid setup for the future. Moderator Dan Jordanger (Providence, Gum Spring) called the meeting to order at 9:30 a.m. and led the presbytery in
Interim General Presbyter Fred Holbrook retired June 30. This marks the end of 40 years of ordained service to the Lord and to PC(USA). After receiving a Master of Divinity from Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond, Holbrook was called to service in Kansas, North Carolina, and Virginia, including 12 years as executive director of Massanetta
The Committee on Nominations is seeking ruling elders open to serving as vice moderator of the presbytery in 2023 and as moderator in 2024. Ideal candidates are those who enjoy conducting meetings, speaking in public, and learning new things. If you are a ruling elder who is being called by the Holy Spirit to lead